Framing A Deck Around A Bay
Many houses are built with a door access projecting from a cantilevered bay. In most cases, particularly in older construction, these bays are not built from continuous floor trusses running through the house. They are instead simply applied or tacked on to the side of the house. This means you cannot directly hang off this section of house. If you are working around a canted bay, verify your house's construction by checking your house plans or the house frame itself if you have an unfinished basement. You can always cut beam pockets into the house to provide bearing support or install posts and footings beside the house. But, why the hassle? The best and least invasive technique is to frame an H around the cantilevered bay.
This is done by installing two beams running perpendicular to the house from either side of the bay and running a beam between them directly in front of the bay. In essence, you are transferring the load off of the cantilevered bay through the beam set in front to the two perpendicular-oriented beams and finally to a solid part of the house. Use the proper joist hangers and fasteners to secure the framing. Because of the long spans across the bay, you may need to use a 3-2x10 beam.
Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim
Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.
Checking House Framing
Make sure your house frame is solid and in good condition before installing a deck ledger board. We list some problem areas to look for before building.
Removing Stucco Siding
Learn how to cut through stucco siding to prepare a house wall to install a deck ledger board.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When it comes to cleaning your deck, it's important to choose the right pressure washer. Use this pressure washer buying guide from Decks.com to help with your decision!
How to Bug-Proof Your Deck & Floorboards
Prevent bug infestations below and above your deck using mesh, screens, and more. Learn how you can have a bug-free deck this summer with Decks.com.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
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what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
Ledger to engineered floor joists
Explore your options for building a deck onto a house with engineered floor joists.
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Compare stainless steel, copper and vinyl flashing materials for waterproofing your deck ledger board.
How to Remove Scuffs and Scratches from Composite Decking
Removing scuffs and scratches can help make your composite deck look like new. Learn how to fix and prevent your composite deck from future scratches.
Can You Paint or Stain Composite Decking?
Most composites don’t require painting or staining. However, if you are considering staining or painting your deck, you can learn how to do so and what you’ll need at Decks.com.
Deck Maintenance Checklist
Wondering how to best care for your deck? Download our comprehensive deck maintenance checklist to ensure your deck is safe and lasts for years at Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights